This comes hours after Zenit St Petersburg had confirmed to the media that the deal was complete. The 27-year-old's transfer passed his medical and agreed on personal terms with Arsenal on Monday, but the deal was not sealed until a day after the transfer deadline close due to delayed ratification from the Premier League.

The Russia international was a vital cog in Zenit's UEFA Cup winning squad of last season and has earned 41 caps for his country. Arsene Wenger has reportedly been a long time admirer of the Russian playmaker and announced late on Monday that the deal had been done, but was just waiting to be ratified.

The amount paid for the player is undisclosed, but Zenit spokesman Alexei Petrov appeared on Russian television on Monday and said: "Both clubs have managed to complete the deal. Arshavin will play for Arsenal from now on,"

"The conditions of the contract are very favorable for Zenit. The value of the deal is much more than GBP 12 million."

Arshavin has reportedly signed a three-and-a-half year contract with the London based club, and could make his debut in the North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.

Soccer365.com